Kitchener homicide victim identified as 18-year-old Toronto man

Waterloo police have identified the victim of a homicide in Kitchener on Friday as an 18-year-old Toronto man.

Police saidthe victim isJoshua Bennett, 18, of Etobicoke. He was a student at Conestoga College, according to the school.

The homicide happened in the area of Paulander Driveon Sept.24, 2021. Police were called to the areaat about4:30 a.m., after receiving a report of an injured male.

When they arrived, officers found Bennettoutside near a trail in the area. He was pronounced dead at the scene.

A post-mortem examination is scheduled on Saturday to determine the cause of death.

As part of the investigation and with consultation with the victim's family, police released a photo of Bennett.

"This senseless death has no place in our community," Waterloo Chief of Police Bryan Larkin said in a news release on Saturday.

"I want to reassure the community that we have a dedicated team of highly skilled investigators who are working hard to find those responsible."

Investigators are asking anyone with information to come forward and contact Waterloo police.

College releases statement

Conestoga College president John Tibbits put out a statement over the weekend describing Bennett's death as a source of "great sadness."

"Counselling services are available to support students and employees during this difficult time," Tibbits said, adding that the College's flag will be lowered to half mast on Monday.

Bennett began attending Conestoga College in fall of 2020, and was studying in the carpentry and renovation technician program.